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12.17.2013

Rejected Atheist Ads have Risen in Vancouver

The Centre for Inquiry's new atheist advertising campaign, initially rejected by Pattison Outdoor in Vancouver, has now been launched with CBS Outdoor. The ads replace religious proverbs with humanist phrases such as, "Praying won't help. Doing will."

The controversy has generated a heated discussion. In light of public support, CFI is raising funds to bring the ads across the country. "CFI is a voice for millions of Canadians who question the need for religion to live a good, meaningful life," said CFI President Kevin Smith. "We're pleased to bring their message into the public square, despite opposition."

Pattison now claims they would approve the ads with minor tweaks, which is fundamentally different from their original notice. Pattison officials had rejected out of hand CFI's request for explanation or guidelines behind their decision.

CBS Outdoor agreed to run the ads without changes. The ads can be seen on transit shelters in downtown Vancouver and on two billboards in Burnaby.